Enchanting Kerala

KERALA TOURISM NEWSLETTER

The Glory of Aryanad- Sculpting Jumbos

There was a time when a whole village was steeped in craftsmanship, when the whole area was dotted with many a sculpting studio, all abuzz with activities, when the ‘thud-thud-thud’ of the mallet of the artisans was all that resounded across the length and breadth of the land. Even today, one gets to witness here artisans engrossed in sculpting magnificent pieces. 

Welcome to a sleepy little hamlet which goes by the name Aryanad that is still noted for its master craftsmen who are adept at sculpting exquisite elephant figurines. From miniature 2 inch sculptures to life-size elephants are crafted to perfection by these highly skilled artisans.

All work is done by hand and no machine work is involved at any stage and this shows in the remarkable sculptures crafted with fine precision.

Rosewood has always been the wood preferred by the artisans as the sculptures made with this retain its quality even after ages and its colour matches the shade of elephants. Myriad poses of elephants-elephant herds, fights- you name it and these highly talented artists will sculpt them for you. Depending on the size of the elephants, nails and tusks are incorporated into the sculpture.

For the people of Aryanad, elephant sculpting was around from as long as they could remember. In fact, it was a way of life for them. The huge market for elephant sculptures among domestic and foreign travellers saw the whole village engage in sculpting jumbos. 

The status enjoyed by the elephant sculptures as souvenirs among foreigners catapulted this small hamlet into the tourist radar. So much so that visiting this hamlet used to be a part of the itinerary for most travellers. They made regular pit stops during their journey to watch the artisans sculpting unique pieces which they eventually ended up buying. Huge elephant figurines were even exported and now adorn the houses of faraway lands.

Even now, every tourist season witnesses foreigners arriving to watch the artisans sculpt remarkable models of these majestic creatures.

This patch of land with its creative milieu, that has been around for decades passing down their remarkable knowledge through generations, is in essence the crowning glory of the State.